Do you have a passion for science and a desire to find truth and seek justice in legal proceedings?

A young woman in a lab oat gives the rock n' roll sign with her hand.

Then a career as a forensic scientist may be for you!

What Do Forensic Scientists Do?

Michael C Hall as Dexter Morgan, a forensic scientist blood splatter analyst,  sitting at desk spinning in his chair.

Forensic scientists, sometimes called criminalists or crime scene investigators, do many important tasks, which may include:

  • Collecting evidence, which may include weapons, fingerprints, bodily fluids, or digital data. ✔️

  • Analyzing physical and digital evidence collected from a crime scene. 🔎

  • Providing expert testimony before and during trials. ⚖️

  • Photographing or making sketches of the crime scene and evidence. 📷

  • Accurately documenting findings of investigations. 📋

Quiz

What types of crimes or incidents might a forensic scientist investigate? Select all that apply:

How Do I Become A Forensic Scientist?

Scientist in protective gear putting a solution into a test tube with a syringe Photo by Julia Koblitz on Unsplash

You will need:

  • A bachelor's degree in science.

  • An advanced degree or specialized training (Masters, Ph.D.) for some jobs in the field.

  • Good speaking skills, as you may be called on to testify in court.

  • Excellent note-taking and observation skills.

  • The ability to write a scientific report.

  • The ability to remain unbiased and maintain personal and professional integrity.

How Much Does A Forensic Scientist Earn?

Flaticon Icon Average pay in the US:

  • $62,570/year or $31.29/hour

Flaticon Icon Average pay in Canada:

  • C$63,100/year or $31.55/hour

Take Action

Three young forensic scientists analyzing a finger print on a computer screen

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